The impact of the Indochinese and Algerian Wars on the French scouting movement, 1945–1962

Abstract This article examines the impact of the Indochinese and Algerian Wars of Independence on the French scouting movement. Historically, the ties between scouting and imperialism were tight, with imperial service seen as a practical extension of scouting activities as well as a patriotic duty and an opportunity for adventure. In the post-war period, this consensus in support of colonialism and military service broke down. The participation of many members heightened political awareness and led to growing criticism of the French military. During the Indochina War, dissenters were accused of being subversive communists who were undermining the movement’s patriotism and apoliticism, but anti-militarist and anti-imperialist currents grew during the Algerian War. This was closely connected to the growth of the religious Left in the faith communities of which the scouting associations were a part. Interactions between French Scouts and their counterparts in other nations, especially colonized and post-colonial states, also contributed. The Scouts de France (SDF) are therefore a valuable case study of how changing national, religious, generational, racial and gender identities in post-war France influenced response to the Algerian War, and how in turn the war impacted that reconceptualization.